unravel - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
unravel Word Meanings
- to separate into parts
- to clarify or solve
- to come apart or fall apart
unravel Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
unravel Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ʌnˈrævəl/
US
/ʌnˈrævəl/
unravel Word Etymology
un- = not + ravel = tangle. Originated from Middle English 'unravelen', influenced by Old French and indirectly from Latin 're-' = back + 'vellare' = to pull. Picture a ball of yarn being loosened and straightened out, revealing the long thread within.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputReal Context
Unravel means to separate something that is tangled into its individual parts, especially threads or yarn, or to cause a knot to loosen. It also means to explain or solve something that is confusing by removing ambiguity. In use, you can say unravel a knot or unravel a complex theory. The phrase the plan began to unravel describes something failing or coming apart under pressure. The verb is transitive and it can be used with concrete objects or with ideas, problems, or stories. Spelling forms vary: unraveling/unraveled in American English, unravelled/unraveling in British English.
Usage Reminders
- Identify physical vs abstract use
- Watch for knot, mystery, plan as common objects
- Remember the -ing/-ed endings in different English varieties
- Use the phrase the plan began to unravel for gradual breakdown
- Don't confuse with unfold or solve; context guides meaning
- Practice with short, clear sentences illustrating each sense
Common Misconceptions
- Unravel only means physically untangling yarn
- Unravel always implies something good or positive
- Unravel is the same as unfold or solve
- You can unravel a person or a plan instantly
- Unravel never applies to abstract ideas
Thinking Differences
English typically keeps unravel as a versatile verb for both physical disentangling and gradual metaphorical breakdown, with clear idioms like the plan began to unravel.
Learning Tips
- Group senses into physical vs figurative
- Practice with knot and mystery collocations
- Track endings unraveling, unraveled, unravelled
- Use the plan began to unravel for gradual breakdown
- Contrast with unfold and solve to reinforce distinction
- Create 3 short sentences for each sense
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 2: Usage
In which sentence is 'unravel' used correctly?
A.The cake was well-mixed.
B.He tangled the thread more.
C.She tried to unravel the mystery.
D.The book was twisted.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is most similar to 'unravel'?
A.Complicate
B.Weave
C.Twist
D.Untangle
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'unravel'?
A.Tangle
B.Twist
C.Mix up
D.Solve
Step 5: Mastery
In what real-life situation would you use the word 'unravel'?
A.Untwisting a knot in shoelaces
B.Following a knitting pattern
C.Cooking a recipe
D.Playing a video game
Related Listening
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Turning Negative into Growth: Redefining Setbacks
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